ASK AMY KOCH
A monthly column from the Executive Director of the Charles Ford Retirement Communities of New Harmony
Frequently Asked Questions about Making the Transition into the Charles Ford Retirement Communities of New Harmony
This column first appeared a year ago and is being updated and republished due to the frequency of the many questions it answers about assisted living, its features and costs. Amy Koch, executive director at the Charles Ford Retirement Communities of New Harmony, responds to the most often asked ones, here. Keep in mind, the answers may be modified when Covid restrictions are in effect.
- If I live at the CFRC, can I keep my car and/or golf cart and drive them whenever I want? “Doors are locked but residents have the code and may come and go and are encouraged to be as independent and active as possible. Those who are capable of safely operating a car or golf cart at home are encouraged to continue to do so when they become residents here.”
- Can I have a coffee maker in my room? “Each room is equipped with a lovely kitchenette including cabinets with granite sink tops, a room-sized refrigerator and microwave. There is always coffee available in our Bistro area, however we welcome residents to bring a coffee pot for in-room use.”
- Do I have to eat breakfast in the dining room? “Many residents ask this question while moving in claiming they don’t normally eat breakfast. Some prefer to snack or have coffee in their own rooms for breakfast. We encourage residents to do what is enjoyable for them. We believe socialization is an integral part of our culture of living well; however, room service is available at breakfast time for an additional price.”
- How do residents get physical exercise? “The most popular form of physical exercise is a walking program modified to meet specific resident needs and residents get far more physical exercise when they’re walking up and down the hall to meals and other activities. Additionally, residents have the benefit of physical and occupation therapy services through the home health agency of their choice. This benefit is most often covered by Medicare. Modified exercise programs like Tai Chi, Chair Yoga and Exercise Class are also part of our Life Enrichment program.”
- What is the monthly base fee for Respite Care at the CFRC? “Respite Care is normally considered a temporary stay less than one month and is charged at a rate of $140/day for a small room and $170/day for a large room. Residents who decide to stay beyond 30 days are converted to a monthly rate resulting in significant savings.”
- For a full-time Resident, what is the monthly lease fee and what services are included in that fee? “The monthly lease fee in a Large Room is $4,100; Small Room, $3,235; Large Room with double occupancy, $5,980; Two Room Apartment, $6,050. Lease fees include three meals daily, plus beverages and snacks; weekly housekeeping service, utilities (except private telephone), life enrichment programs, secure environment, secure parking, scheduled transportation, maintenance services, cable television, wireless internet, emergency nurse call service, 24-hour nursing staff, and wellness checks. Additional personal assistance fees, if needed, are based on the level of service required.”
